Harry Maguire, Cristiano Ronaldo & first steps - Erik Ten Hag’s best answers from Man Utd unveiling

Erik ten Hag was asked about a wide range of subjects in Monday’s unveiling as the new Manchester United manager.

The Dutchman faced questions about everything from transfers and his style of football, to Ralf Rangnick’s role and his view of the Crystal Palace loss on Sunday.

Ten Hag handled his questions well and came across in an engaging and welcoming manner, even stopping to introduce himself and shake hands with journalists as he entered the room.

But, unsurprisingly given he has just started the new role, Ten Hag was unable to answer in great detail what United must improve on, while he was a little guarded with some of his responses.

Here are the best and most intriguing answers he gave during his first media briefing…

First steps

Ten Hag was asked what he has to sort first at the club and revealed there is plenty to arrange before pre-season gets under way.

“The initial steps, what we are now doing, is constructing the staff, constructing the squad and constructing a good pre-season plan,” he said

Reason for joining United

After speaking in glowing terms about the Red Devils’ past and history, it was put to Ten Hag whether this was a big factor in him joining the club.

While the former Ajax boss admitted the United’s previous successes are impressive, he said there was one driving factor in him joining the club.

“The reason is because there is high potential for the future. That’s why I’m here.”

Ignoring Van Gaal advice

In March, ex-manager Louis van Gaal warned the new United boss against joining a ‘commercial club’, but speaking on Monday, Ten Hag revealed he spoke to the current Netherlands boss and drew his own conclusions.

“I spoke with more people who have experience with this club and expertise, but finally I will draw my own line,” said the 52-year-old.

“Yes, I spoke with Louis, I was at the premiere of his movie. I had heard [his previous comments], but I draw my own line. I am convinced this will not be the case.

“I spoke to the directors about it, but football is one, two and three in this club. Every club these days is commercial. Every club needs it, you need the revenues to be in the top and to do what is necessary.”

Ronaldo’s role

Ten Hag was also asked what kind of role Cristiano Ronaldo will have in his team next season, and explained he definitely sees the 37-year-old in his plans.

When questioned about what Ronaldo would bring to team, Ten Hag responded: “Goals,” with a chuckle. “I talk first with Ronaldo before I talk with you,” he added.

United’s new captain

The new manager praised Harry Maguire in the latter stages of the media briefing, but seemed to imply that being United captain this season won’t ensure he will be handed the armband again in 2022/23.

"I have to repeat that next season is a different season,” he said, on the subject of who will skipper the side. “But I think he did a great job.

“He’s a great player, he’s achieved already a lot really also [with his] contribution to Manchester United. So I’m looking forward to working with him.”